Road users' lives are being put at risk by "mindless" youngsters launching objects from a motorway footbridge near Merstham.

Police have issued an urgent appeal for information after the public reported three incidents of missiles being thrown onto the M25, between junctions 7 and 8 for the M23 and Reigate, from an overhead bridge in just four days.

The first incident occurred at around 8.25pm on Monday (July 29) and there were reports of two incidents at around 9pm on Thursday (August 1) leaving a lorry with around £2,000 worth of damage to its windscreen and a coach with £1,000 worth of damage.

Speaking after the first case Reigate and Banstead Neighbourhood Inspector Richard Haycock described the actions of the culprits, believed to be aged between 12 and 14, as "mindless", after a lorry damaged its numberplate when it struck a branch which was thrown from the bridge.

Detective Sergeant Oana King said: "The fact that a coach was targeted is frightening and it is lucky that only a door was damaged as we could have potentially been dealing with serious injuries or even a number of fatalities.

"Incidents of this nature are extremely serious as it is putting the lives of many road users at risk and we will do all we can to find those responsible.

"Those responsible may not realise the consequences their actions may have and I would stress to them or anyone else thinking of taking part in such a dangerous activity that we will do all we can to pursue offenders and bring them to justice."

A 15-year-old boy from Merstham has been arrested in connection with the incident and remains in police custody.

Anyone with information is urged to call Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference RB/13/6255 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.